Education Grants for Single Mothers in Mississippi
Mississippi Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This page focuses on real, current dollar amounts, rules, deadlines, and direct links for single moms in Mississippi. Every program below includes how to apply, required documents, and who to call if you get stuck.
Quick Help (read this first)
- File the FAFSA now to unlock federal and state grants. The 2025–26 FAFSA is open; the federal deadline is June 30, 2026. Use your 2023 taxes. Go to the official FAFSA site, create your FSA ID, and submit. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Mississippi state aid (HELP, MTAG, MESG) uses the state’s MAAPP portal. Deadlines: HELP and forgivable loans by March 31; MTAG/MESG by September 15. Support docs due April 30 (HELP/forgivable loans) and October 15 (MTAG/MESG). Apply or check status in MAAPP. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Maximum Federal Pell Grant for 2025–26 is up to 7,395(minimum7,395 (minimum 740). Your amount depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI), family size, and enrollment level. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- HELP Grant (Mississippi) can pay full in‑state public tuition and required fees; at private colleges it pays up to the average public tuition/fees. Income limits apply (see table below). (msfinancialaid.org)
- Need free, human FAFSA/application help today? Call Get2College: Gulf Coast 228‑875‑4441, Jackson/Metro 601‑321‑5533, North MS 662‑349‑2789. Appointments are free (in‑person or virtual). (get2college.org)
- Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) helpline: 800‑327‑2980 or 601‑432‑6997 (M–F). They administer HELP, MTAG, MESG, FAITH, Nissan, and more. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Child care while you study: apply for MDHS Child Care Payment Program (CCPP). Co‑pays are 0forfamiliesat/belowpoverty;certaingroupshavea0 for families at/below poverty; certain groups have a 10 max co‑pay; others use a sliding scale. Call 800‑877‑7882. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Training grants/short‑term certificates: ask about WIOA funding (tuition, books, fees) through Mississippi WIN Job Centers; use the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) to pick a program. (mdes.ms.gov, mdes.ms.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (what pays what)
| Program | What it can pay | 2025–26 amount(s) | Key eligibility | Where to apply | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Tuition/fees/books/cost of attendance | Up to 7,395(min7,395 (min 740) | FAFSA; undergrad; financial need | FAFSA at StudentAid.gov (schools award) (fsapartners.ed.gov) | 
| FSEOG (campus grant) | Extra grant at your college | 100–100–4,000/yr (campus‑based) | Greatest need; funds limited | Your college financial aid office (fsapartners.ed.gov) | 
| HELP (MS) | Full in‑state public tuition + required fees (or avg public rate at privates) | Varies by your college’s tuition | MS resident; ACT 20+; 2.5 GPA; HELP curriculum; income limits | MAAPP (state portal) (msfinancialaid.org) | 
| MTAG (MS) | Tuition help if you don’t get max Pell | Frosh/Soph: 500/yr;Jr/Sr:500/yr; Jr/Sr: 1,000/yr | MS resident; 2.5 GPA; ACT ≥15; < max Pell | MAAPP (msfinancialaid.org) | 
| MESG (MS) | Merit grant | Up to $2,500/yr | HS GPA 3.5 + ACT ≥29 or Nat’l Merit; full‑time in MS | MAAPP (msfinancialaid.org) | 
| C2C Grant (adults returning) | Tuition, fees, old balance, grad fees | $1,000/term, renewable | Age 21+; some prior credits; out of college 2+ yrs; meet C2C rules | Through your C2C Coach (MS IHL/CCB) (msfinancialaid.org) | 
| FAITH (foster youth) | Up to Cost of Attendance minus other grants | Varies; can cover COA gaps | In/aged‑out of MS foster care; <25; at least 6 hrs | MAAPP + CPS coordination (msfinancialaid.org) | 
| WIOA training funds | Tuition, books, fees, tests | Varies by area; may cover full program | Eligible adult/dislocated worker; approved program | WIN Job Center; ETPL (mdes.ms.gov, mdes.ms.gov) | 
| CCAMPIS (campus child care) | Child care subsidy while enrolled | Varies by campus | Pell‑eligible student‑parents; campus has CCAMPIS grant | Your campus child care/aid office (e.g., USM) (usm.edu) | 
Note: CCAMPIS funding is being cut at some colleges nationally; check with your Mississippi campus to confirm availability for 2025–26. (washingtonpost.com)
Mississippi state aid: deadlines you cannot miss
| Program | App window | Docs due | Notes | 
|---|---|---|---|
| HELP + forgivable loan programs | Oct 1 – Mar 31 | Apr 30 | Apply early; income + curriculum verification needed | 
| MTAG + MESG | Oct 1 – Sept 15 | Oct 15 | Full‑time required; see credit‑hour rule below | 
| Nissan Scholarship | Oct 1 – Mar 1 | Mar 1 | Pays full tuition/fees + book allowance; 1–2 awards/yr | 
Source: Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid Awards Timeline. (msfinancialaid.org)
Credit‑hour maintenance rule: For 2025–26, full‑time state aid recipients must complete at least 12 credit hours each fall and spring to remain eligible. (msfinancialaid.org)
Federal grants you should claim first
Federal Pell Grant (core grant most single moms get)
- What it pays: Tuition, fees, books, living costs in your school’s Cost of Attendance.
- How much: Up to **7,395∗∗for2025–26(minimum7,395** for 2025–26 (minimum 740). Your exact amount = 7,395minusyourSAI(roundedto7,395 minus your SAI (rounded to 5) if you don’t qualify for the maximum by formula. Year‑round Pell lets many students use up to 150% of their annual award by attending summer. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply: Submit the FAFSA. Federal deadline for the 2025–26 FAFSA is June 30, 2026 (don’t wait—earlier helps with campus grants). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Reality check: Schools can disburse federal aid no earlier than 10 days before classes; credit balances must be released within 14 days. First‑time loan borrowers have a 30‑day delay for loans (not Pell). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your FAFSA is flagged or delayed, book a free appointment with Get2College (numbers above) and ask your aid office to add a “dependent care allowance” to your Cost of Attendance to reflect child care costs—it can increase your grant eligibility. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- What it pays: Extra grant for students with the greatest need.
- How much: 100–100–4,000 per year; limited funding; awarded first‑come first‑served at participating colleges. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply: FAFSA + ask your school if they award FSEOG and when funds typically run out.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your campus is out of FSEOG, ask about emergency aid funds or a professional judgment review to reflect current income or child‑care costs. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
TEACH Grant (only if you plan to teach)
- What it pays: Up to roughly **3,772∗∗forawardsfirstdisbursedOct1,2025–Sept30,2026(sequesterreducesthe3,772** for awards first disbursed Oct 1, 2025–Sept 30, 2026 (sequester reduces the 4,000 statutory amount by 5.7%). Comes with a teaching service commitment in a high‑need field at a low‑income school; otherwise it converts to a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply: FAFSA + TEACH counseling/Agreement to Serve at your college.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider Mississippi’s Winter‑Reed Teacher Loan Repayment (see below) after you graduate; it can help repay loans if TEACH isn’t a fit. (msfinancialaid.org)
Mississippi grants and scholarships (stack these on top of federal aid)
HELP – Higher Education Legislative Plan (best for low/moderate income)
- What it pays: Full in‑state public tuition and required fees (or average public tuition/fees at MS private colleges). Max 8 semesters. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Income limits (2025–26): Average Adjusted Gross Income (AAGI) must be 42,500∗∗orlessforparents,plus∗∗42,500** or less for parents, plus **5,000 for each additional dependent under 21 other than the student. Examples: 0 other dependents = 42,500;2otherdependents=42,500; 2 other dependents = 52,500. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Core eligibility: MS resident; 2.5 HS GPA; ACT ≥20; complete the HELP curriculum (IHL CPC); be Pell‑eligible (max or partial). Full‑time enrollment required. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Deadline: Apply by March 31; documents by April 30. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Apply: FAFSA + MAAPP; your counselor must certify the HELP curriculum online. (msfinancialaid.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you miss the HELP deadline, apply for MTAG/MESG and ask your college about institutional grants, emergency aid, or a payment plan while you re‑apply next year. (msfinancialaid.org)
MTAG – Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (fills small gaps)
- What it pays: 500/yr∗∗(freshman/sophomore)and∗∗500/yr** (freshman/sophomore) and **1,000/yr (junior/senior). Up to 8 semesters. Must be eligible for less than the max Pell Grant. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Eligibility: MS resident; ACT ≥15; 2.5 GPA; full‑time. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Deadline: Apply by Sept 15; docs by Oct 15. (msfinancialaid.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you already get the max Pell or drop below full‑time, talk to your aid office about an appeal or schedule change; OSFA can advise at 800‑327‑2980. (msfinancialaid.org)
MESG – Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant (merit)
- What it pays: Up to $2,500/yr; cannot exceed tuition/required fees; up to 8 semesters. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Eligibility: HS GPA 3.5 + ACT ≥29 (or National Merit Finalist/Semifinalist); full‑time. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Deadline: Sept 15; docs Oct 15. (msfinancialaid.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your ACT is below 29, focus on HELP or MTAG; also ask your college about merit scholarships for non‑traditional students (many don’t require ACT if you have college credits). (msfinancialaid.org)
Nissan Scholarship (competitive, but big)
- What it pays: Full tuition, required fees, and a book allowance at MS public 2‑ or 4‑year colleges (usually 1–2 awards statewide each year). (msfinancialaid.org)
- Eligibility: MS resident; HS GPA 2.5+; ACT ≥20; full‑time; leadership and need. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Deadline: March 1 (strict). (msfinancialaid.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local community college foundation about nontraditional student scholarships; many carry spring cycles or rolling awards.
FAITH Scholarship (if you were in Mississippi foster care)
- What it pays: Up to your school’s full Cost of Attendance minus other grant aid; includes holiday housing when available. Up to 5 years; 72 CC hours or 144 university hours. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Who qualifies: Current/former MS foster youth or certain residential care alumni; under age 25; at least 6 credits/term. Apply in MAAPP plus coordinate with CPS; also apply for ETV (see next). (msfinancialaid.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for ETV (Education & Training Voucher) separately—up to $5,000/yr for eligible foster youth; renewals possible up to age 26 if you started before 23. Contact MDCPS foster youth resources. (casetext.com, mdcps.ms.gov)
Child care and student‑parent supports (because school depends on childcare)
Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) – MDHS
- What it does: Pays a big part of child care tuition to approved providers while you work or attend training/college and meet income rules.
- Parent co‑pay: 0ifincomeisat/belowpoverty;∗∗0 if income is at/below poverty; **10 max** for certain groups (teen parents, foster, special needs, SSI parents, etc.); others use a sliding fee scale. Co‑pays are split evenly across children. Call 800‑877‑7882. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Status/timeline updates (2025): As of Aug 1, 2025, MDHS reopened applications to families on the waitlist (invited in order). Certificates are issued for 12 months at a time. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Apply/find providers: Use the MDHS CCPP parent portal (you must pick a provider first). (mdhs.ms.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact the Mississippi LIFT Resource & Referral network via MSU Extension to find lower‑cost licensed care near you and get help with applications. (extension.msstate.edu)
CCAMPIS (campus child care grants)
- Some Mississippi campuses run CCAMPIS child‑care subsidies for Pell‑eligible student‑parents. Example: The University of Southern Mississippi has a CCAMPIS application through its Center for Child Development. Availability can change year to year—ask your campus child care center or aid office. (usm.edu)
- National update: Several colleges are losing CCAMPIS awards for 2025–26 due to federal cuts; always verify your campus status. (washingtonpost.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your aid office to add a dependent‑care allowance to your Cost of Attendance and document child care receipts. This can increase need‑based aid eligibility. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Short‑term job training that pays (WIOA, MI‑BEST, SNAP E&T)
- WIOA (Mississippi Works) can fund approved training through the WIN Job Centers using Individual Training Accounts (ITAs). ITAs often cover tuition, books, testing, and some supplies for in‑demand programs. Use the ETPL to pick a program and meet with a case manager. (mdes.ms.gov, mdes.ms.gov)
- Adult Education + MI‑BEST at community colleges lets you finish your high school diploma/HSE and a workforce certificate together, with support services and integrated instruction. (mccb.edu)
- SNAP E&T (Skills2Work) offers job training for SNAP recipients and an $80 monthly support stipend, plus help with transportation, child care, and supplies. Ask your SNAP worker to refer you. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Get2College or your college workforce office about employer‑paid apprenticeships or hospital‑sponsored training (many cover tuition for nursing assistants, LPN bridge programs, etc.). (get2college.org)
Real Mississippi dollar amounts and rules at a glance
| State program | Amounts (2025–26) | Key rules | 
|---|---|---|
| HELP | Pays full in‑state public tuition/fees; at privates pays up to the average public rate | ACT ≥20; HS GPA 2.5; HELP curriculum; AAGI table (e.g., 42,500+42,500 + 5,000 per additional dependent under 21) | 
| MTAG | 500/yrfrosh/soph;500/yr frosh/soph; 1,000/yr jr/sr | Full‑time; ACT ≥15; 2.5 GPA; < max Pell | 
| MESG | Up to $2,500/yr | GPA 3.5 + ACT ≥29 or National Merit | 
| FAITH (foster) | Up to Cost of Attendance minus grants | Under 25; foster/residential care status; ≥6 hours | 
| C2C Grant | $1,000/term, renewable | Returning adults; through C2C Coach | 
Loan repayment (after you graduate)
These aren’t “grants” during school, but they can wipe out loans while you work in Mississippi.
| Program | Pays | 2025–26 amount(s) | Who qualifies | When paid | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter‑Reed Teacher Loan Repayment (WRTR) | Makes payments to your loan servicer | Non‑shortage area: 1,500→1,500 → 2,500 → 3,500∗∗;Criticalshortage:∗∗3,500**; Critical shortage: **4,000 → 5,000→5,000 → 6,000 over 3 years | Licensed MS teachers/librarians; full‑time in public school; priority to shortage areas | Paid after each school year | 
| Nurse Retention Loan Repayment (NULR) | Makes payments to your loan servicer | Up to **6,000/yr∗∗forupto3years(max6,000/yr** for up to 3 years (max 18,000) | LPNs/RNs working full‑time in licensed MS skilled nursing homes or general acute care hospitals | Rolling awards during cycle; paid to servicer | 
Private scholarships especially friendly to single moms
- Soroptimist “Live Your Dream” Awards: local/regional/international awards totaling 1,000–1,000–16,000; deadline Nov 15; must be primary financial support for your family and enrolled/accepted in a degree or skills program. Apply online and your local club reviews. (soroptimist.org, liveyourdream.org)
- Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant: for women/nonbinary age 35+, first associate’s/bachelor’s/technical degree. Up to $2,500/yr, renewable up to 5 years. Cycle opens each winter; check dates. (rankinfoundation.org)
- Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP): for survivors of intimate partner violence (often single moms), typically 500–500–2,000 per term (some awards up to $6,000/yr per program guidance). Two main cycles: Jan 1–Mar 1 and Sept 1–Nov 1. Requires partnership with a domestic‑violence agency. (wispinc.org)
- Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians – Tribal Scholarships: deadlines May 31/Oct 31/Mar 31 (by semester). Call 800‑446‑5006. Amounts vary; for enrolled tribal members. (choctaw.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to find local women’s groups and church‑based scholarships; ask your college foundation about “nontraditional student” or “student parent” funds. 211 is statewide and free (dial 211). (myunitedway.com)
How to apply (fast path)
- FAFSA (federal): Create FSA IDs for you (and a contributor if needed), gather 2023 tax info, submit, list your Mississippi colleges. Federal deadline June 30, 2026 (don’t wait). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- MAAPP (Mississippi state aid): One application for HELP/MTAG/MESG/FAITH/Nissan; upload residency docs; watch your to‑do list for verification items. Deadlines vary (see table). (msfinancialaid.org)
- WIOA training funds: Visit a WIN Job Center and ask about eligibility and the ETPL; bring ID, resume, layoff notice (if any), and FAFSA confirmation. (mdes.ms.gov, mdes.ms.gov)
- Child care (CCPP): Choose a provider first (search the MDHS database), then apply online and upload required documents. Hotline: 800‑877‑7882. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Required documents (have these ready)
- Photo ID (MS driver’s license or state ID). (msfinancialaid.org)
- Social Security number(s).
- 2023 federal tax return (1040) and W‑2s (for FAFSA); other income proofs if requested. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Proof of Mississippi residency for state aid (driver’s license, MS state tax return, voter registration, or homestead exemption). (msfinancialaid.org)
- High school transcript, ACT score (for HELP/MTAG/MESG). (msfinancialaid.org)
- Child care provider info and your work/school schedule (for CCPP). (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Foster care documentation (for FAITH/ETV), if applicable. (msfinancialaid.org, mdcps.ms.gov)
Real‑world timelines (what to expect)
| Step | Typical timeline | 
|---|---|
| Get FSA ID + submit FAFSA | 30–60 minutes; FAFSA processing 1–3 days online | 
| School posts your aid offer | 1–3 weeks after they receive your FAFSA (varies) | 
| Federal aid disbursement | On/after 10 days before classes; loan credit for first‑time freshmen may be delayed ~30 days; credit balances must be released within 14 days | 
| HELP/MTAG/MESG decisions | State begins offers mid‑ to late‑June after budgets and grade files; ongoing as docs complete | 
| C2C grant decision | Up to 14 days after application; funds post after enrollment verification (may take ~2 weeks for the college to post) | 
| WIOA approval | 1–4 weeks depending on area/case load | 
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting until summer to file the FAFSA—campus and FSEOG funds run out.
- Missing MAAPP deadlines (HELP by Mar 31; MTAG/MESG by Sept 15). Set reminders. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Enrolling part‑time when a grant requires full‑time (12 hours for 2025–26 state aid); dropping below can cancel your term award. Talk to your advisor before changing. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Skipping the dependent‑care allowance—ask your aid office to include child care costs in your budget; it can legally increase your aid eligibility. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Ignoring verification emails—upload documents quickly to avoid delayed disbursement (books and rent depend on timing). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Local help you can actually use
- Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid (IHL), 3825 Ridgewood Rd, Jackson—phone 800‑327‑2980 or 601‑432‑6997; MAAPP login for all state programs. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Get2College (free FAFSA/aid help): Ocean Springs 228‑875‑4441; Jackson 601‑321‑5533; Southaven 662‑349‑2789. (get2college.org)
- WIN Job Centers (WIOA): use MDES pages to find locations/programs and the ETPL. (mdes.ms.gov, mdes.ms.gov)
- Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence: find local member shelters (good WISP sponsors for survivors). (mcadv.org)
- Dial 211 to locate nearby scholarship workshops, emergency aid, and child care referrals. (myunitedway.com)
Diverse Communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your campus for an updated non‑discrimination statement and inclusive family housing. If you face bias in aid or housing, document and report through student affairs; 211 can point to local legal aid for name‑change or custody resources. (myunitedway.com)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Apply with the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS). VR can help with tuition, textbooks, and even dorm/meal plan fees when appropriate; effective June 15, 2025, MDRS uses a Financial Needs Analysis for some services (SSI/SSDI recipients are exempt). Start with MDRS OVR online request. (mdrs.ms.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Talk to your campus VA certifying official about GI Bill/Basic Allowance for Housing (note: schools exclude BAH housing from COA housing allowance calculations). Ask for dependent‑care COA adjustments for child care. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: FAFSA eligibility depends on your status; many scholarships don’t require citizenship. Seek ESL/English Language Acquisition classes via the community colleges’ Adult Education (Skill UP Mississippi). (mccb.edu)
- Tribal citizens: The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians runs a Tribal Scholarships Program with posted deadlines; combine with Pell/HELP/FAITH where applicable. (choctaw.org)
- Rural single moms: If campus child care/CCAMPIS isn’t available, leverage CCPP and ask your college to include extra commuting costs in COA (professional judgment). (mdhs.ms.gov, fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs above (FAFSA, HELP, MTAG, CCPP, WIOA) apply equally to single dads.
- Language access: When calling state agencies, ask for interpreter services; many offices can add a three‑way interpreter to the call (MDHS and MDES routinely do this). (mdes.ms.gov)
Region‑by‑region starting points (financial aid pages/child care)
- University of Southern Mississippi – CCAMPIS application via the Center for Child Development (if open this year). (usm.edu)
- Mississippi State University – campus child care centers (Child Development & Family Studies Center; tuition posted so you can budget). (humansci.msstate.edu)
- MSU Work‑Life and Childcare resources (referrals and provider database via MSCCR&R). (worklifebalance.msstate.edu)
- All community colleges – adult ed/MI‑BEST and Smart Start through MCCB; call 601‑432‑6138 for Adult Education hub. (mccb.edu)
Plan B: if you’re denied or the money isn’t enough
- Ask for a “professional judgment” review to update your FAFSA/SAI for job loss, reduced hours, or new child care costs.
- Request a payment plan that matches your disbursement dates (schools must release credit balances within 14 days; time your rent/books). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply for WIOA or SNAP E&T to cover short‑term training and get the $80 monthly support stipend (if on SNAP). (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Call 211 to locate emergency grants, rental help, or transportation gas cards near your county. (myunitedway.com)
Application Checklist (print and keep)
- FAFSA submitted; FSA IDs created; school list added.
- MAAPP submitted; residency docs uploaded (MS DL or MS state tax return).
- HELP: ACT 20+, HS transcript, HELP curriculum certification requested from your counselor.
- MTAG/MESG: meet GPA/ACT; full‑time schedule (≥12 hours) locked. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Child care: Provider selected; CCPP application + docs uploaded; save receipts.
- WIOA/SNAP E&T: Appointment scheduled with WIN Job Center; bring ID, resume, FAFSA Summary.
- Scholarships: Soroptimist (by Nov 15), WISP (Jan–Mar or Sept–Nov), Rankin (check current cycle). (liveyourdream.org, wispinc.org, rankinfoundation.org)
FAQs (Mississippi‑specific)
- How much is the Pell Grant this year? Up to **7,395∗∗(min7,395** (min 740) for 2025–26. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- When is the Mississippi HELP deadline? Application by March 31; all docs by April 30. (msfinancialaid.org)
- What income qualifies for HELP? 2025–26 AAGI starts at 42,500∗∗andadds∗∗42,500** and adds **5,000 per additional dependent under 21 (not counting the student). (msfinancialaid.org)
- Can state aid go part‑time? Most undergrad state grants require full‑time (for 2025–26, earn at least 12 hours each term). (msfinancialaid.org)
- What is the MTAG amount? 500/yr∗∗forfreshmen/sophomores;∗∗500/yr** for freshmen/sophomores; **1,000/yr for juniors/seniors. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Does Mississippi have a grant for foster youth in college? Yes—FAITH can cover up to Cost of Attendance after other grants; also apply for ETV up to $5,000/yr. (msfinancialaid.org, casetext.com)
- How fast do C2C grants pay? Reviews take up to 14 days; disbursement follows enrollment verification (posting can take ~2 weeks at your college). (msfinancialaid.org)
- I need child care to attend classes. What are my options? Apply for CCPP (co‑pay may be 0–0–10 for some groups; sliding scale for others). Check if your campus has CCAMPIS; if not, ask your aid office to add dependent‑care costs to your COA. (mdhs.ms.gov, usm.edu, fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Are there Mississippi programs for short certificates? Yes—WIOA can fund many short‑term programs through WIN Job Centers; check the ETPL before enrolling. (mdes.ms.gov)
- Who can help me if I’m stuck? Call OSFA 800‑327‑2980, Get2College (228‑875‑4441, 601‑321‑5533, 662‑349‑2789), or dial 211 for local referrals. (msfinancialaid.org, get2college.org, myunitedway.com)
Quick “What if this doesn’t work?” for every section
- Federal/FAFSA grants: Ask for professional judgment; request dependent‑care allowance; appeal SAP if needed. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Mississippi grants: If denied on hours or GPA, fix the issue and ask OSFA about reinstatement rules; if you missed a deadline, set calendar alerts and ask about institutional aid. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Child care: If CCPP waitlist slows you down, use MSU’s LIFT Resource & Referral to find lower‑cost licensed care and ask your college to budget dependent‑care costs into COA. (extension.msstate.edu, fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Short‑term training: If WIOA funds aren’t available, check SNAP E&T (if on SNAP) for the $80 stipend and supports. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Why this guide is better than what you’ll see in search
Most pages skip exact numbers or bury deadlines. This guide includes the 2025–26 Pell cap ($7,395), Mississippi HELP income table, exact MTAG/MESG amounts, C2C grant dollar value, and state deadlines—and gives you real phone numbers and official application portals. Sources are all official state/federal or established nonprofits and are linked throughout for quick verification.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid, Mississippi Department of Human Services, Mississippi Community College Board, Federal Student Aid/USDOE, and established nonprofits. This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
See our full Editorial Policy. (msfinancialaid.org)
Disclaimer
- Programs change, amounts and rules can shift mid‑year, and funding can run out. Always verify with your college and the agencies linked above before you make financial commitments.
- Website safety: Only use the official links in this guide (studentaid.gov, msfinancialaid.org, mdhs.ms.gov, mdes.ms.gov, mccb.edu). Avoid look‑alike domains and never pay for FAFSA or state aid applications.
- This guide is for general information, not legal advice. If you need legal help (housing, custody, benefits denials), contact your local legal aid or call 211 for a referral. (myunitedway.com)
Sources (selected)
- Federal Pell Grant maximum/minimum (2025–26), deadlines and SAI policy: Federal Student Aid Knowledge Center. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Mississippi OSFA deadlines, HELP/MTAG/MESG rules, MAAPP, and phone: Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid. (msfinancialaid.org)
- HELP income table (2025–26): OSFA PDF. (msfinancialaid.org)
- FSEOG amounts: FSA Handbook and campus‑based funding notice. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Disbursement timelines and credit‑balance rules: FSA Handbook. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- State full‑time requirement (12 hours in 2025–26): OSFA notice. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Get2College free help (locations/phones): Woodward Hines/Get2College. (get2college.org)
- C2C Grant details and deadlines: OSFA C2C page. (msfinancialaid.org)
- WIOA/ETPL and WIN Job Centers: MDES. (mdes.ms.gov, mdes.ms.gov)
- CCPP co‑pay rules, hotline, status updates: MDHS. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- FAITH scholarship (COA coverage) and ETV for foster youth: OSFA and MDCPS. (msfinancialaid.org, mdcps.ms.gov)
- ETV dollar amounts (up to $5,000): MS Admin Code summary. (casetext.com)
- CCAMPIS campus example and national cutbacks: USM application page; Washington Post report. (usm.edu, washingtonpost.com)
- Winter‑Reed and Nurse Retention Loan Repayment amounts: OSFA program pages. (msfinancialaid.org)
- Soroptimist, Rankin, WISP details: official program sites. (soroptimist.org, liveyourdream.org, rankinfoundation.org, wispinc.org)
- Tribal Scholarships (Choctaw): official tribal page. (choctaw.org)
If a link is down or you spot an update, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast.
🏛️More Mississippi Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Mississippi
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
